Page 15 of My Soul for Sale

“Nice to meet you. I’m Birdie and I’m nervous but excited to see what you two can do,” I tell her with a smile.

She waves me over to the leather stool in front of the vanity. I take my seat, looking at myself in the mirror.

“Do you have any preferences for your hair?” Nico asks, running his fingers through my sandy locks.

I think about it for a second. “I don’t have an exact vision, but I know I don’t want it slicked tight. ”Looking at Sophia in the mirror, I wince. “No offense, it looks stunning on you, but I always think I look bald in pictures when my hair is like that.”

Sophia laughs. “No offense taken.”

“Good. I just want something trendy, but elegant.”

Nico finger combs my hair, looking at it like he’s waiting for it to speak to him. “Okay. I like the idea of a half-up style, with some loose curls cascading down. We can add some volume at the crown for that extra glam factor. And those loose curls will add a touch of elegance to the look.”

He looks at me and I move my head back and forth, contemplating what he’s suggested.

“Go for it.”

He’s the expert and I assume they wouldn’t have hired him for this event if he did shit work, so I’m going to trust his judgment.

Sophia takes over from there. “Makeup. I’m gonna do a dark smokey eye with a soft face. However, I want to use a little extra blush and highlight, since I know the lights on the stage are bright.”

“Let’s do it.” I smile and the two of them get to work.

As they work their magic, I sit back in the chair, silently reveling in the luxury of their expertise. The gentle hum of the hot tool and the soft brushes against my skin create a soothing rhythm, lulling me into a state of relaxation I've never experienced before.

Throughout the process, neither Nico nor Sophia ask for any more input; they seem to understand my desires and preferences. Their silent communication and synchronized movements are amazing, allowing me to simply bask in being pampered.

As they put the finishing touches on, I open my eyes to look at myself in the mirror. A wave of awe washes over me at the reflection staring back—a version of myself I never knew was possible.

“What do you think?” Sophia asks.

I blink a few times at myself just to make sure I’m not seeing things.

“I love it. I don’t think I’ve ever looked this good. You’re true miracle workers.” I laugh.

“Nahh. The foundation was all there. You’re a pretty girl. We just enhanced things.” Nico smiles.

“Okay,” Sophia claps. “We are done then. Time to move on to the next. Good luck, Birdie.”

They pack up and just as fast as they came in, they’re gone.

Well, Sloane, it’s time to get dressed.

I blow out a deep breath and cross the room to my bag, pulling out my outfit for tonight.

Stepping into the attached bathroom, the soft glow of the overhead lights cast a warm ambiance across the room. The anticipation hums beneath my skin as I set the royal blue lingerie on the counter.

Once I’m undressed, I slide the lace bralette over my arms, feeling the gentle caress of the fabric against my skin. The intricate crisscrossing pattern adorns my chest, adding a touch of allure. As I adjust the shoulder straps, securing them with a delicate bow on each side, I can't help but admire the way the bralette accentuates my curves.

Next, I slip into the matching high-waisted panties, the snug fit hugging my silhouette, the strap on each side riding up slightly higher over my love handles, creating a shape that fills me with confidence.

Standing before the mirror, I take a moment to appreciate the sight before me—the bold color of the lingerie contrasting against my skin. With a satisfied smile, I turn away, ready to embrace the night ahead.

Natalie shows up to take me to the auction as I’m finishing my chips.

Tossing the bag in the trash, I get up. “Let me just wash my hands.”

“Make it fast. The girl before you just sold, so we need to be ready when you’re announced,” she tells me.